On the Ice

On the Ice (2012)

  • 64% of critics liked it
    (14 reviews)

  • 59% of users liked it
    (652 ratings)

Shot entirely on location in Barrow, Alaska, On The Ice is the engrossing and suspenseful feature film debut by filmmaker Andrew Okpeaha MacLean about two teenage boys who have grown up like brothers go about their lives in the comfortable claustrophobia of an isolated Alaskan town. Early one… More

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R,
Directed By
Written By
Andrew Okpeaha MacLean
Genres
Mystery & Suspense, Drama
In Theaters
Feb 17, 2012 Limited
PMK-BNC Films

Critic Reviews

  • Bill Goodykoontz, Arizona Republic

    The effect is stunningly effective, submerging us in a snowy, frozen, barren land with few options but plenty of opportunities for trouble. It is an offbeat gem.

  • Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times

    An authentic look at life in remote Alaska (the film was shot with a native cast in MacLean's hometown of Barrow) and at a people grappling with drugs, alcoholism, poverty and the limits of an unforgiving environment.

  • Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

    If only because of the setting, this is an uncommonly involving thriller. I could call it a film noir, except that the sun never sets in the film.

  • Sara Stewart, New York Post

    Unfortunately, the emotional landscape of MacLean's stoic main character, Qalli, is often as blank as the tundra.

  • Jeannette Catsoulis, New York Times

    While Mr. Irelan and a few of the supporting players have some solid moments (the entire cast consists of nonprofessionals), the general vibe is too stilted to convince.

Read all 10 critic reviews

See more critic ratings and reviews on Rotten Tomatoes

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

  • Carlos M


    An Alaskan thriller that benefits from its locations and cinematography, efficiently exploring the white vastness of the snow and the atmosphere of isolation. However, the amateurish actors put in weak, irregular performances, while the unoriginal script does not offer any surprises.

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